Silicone loop potholder method and apparatus

ABSTRACT

The present application relates to an interwoven silicon pad utilizing individual silicone bands. The bands form a single seamless loop or may include a single strand of silicone. The silicone bands are interwoven into a preselected pattern having a selected dimension. Silicone bands are removable from the interwoven pad on an individual basis to facilitate customization by a user and also repair. Each pad is heat resistant, non-porous, and non-absorbent and configured to maintain elastic properties.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates generally to hand crafted heat resistant pads and, more particularly, to a heat resistant potholder.

2. Description of Related Art

The need to heat objects or work with heated objects is relatively common place in society. Society uses burners, pots and pans, irons, and other objects suitable for heating. Unfortunately, a large number of surfaces are unsuitable in contacting such heated objects. For example, not all counter tops are capable of withstanding the heat from a pot. Tables are another example where heat is possibly an issue. In order to protect surfaces from heated objects, barriers or pads have been developed to separate the heated object from the delicate surface. A blow drier is an example of a product in which a barrier was formed around the heated object. Barriers are not always possible however.

The heated pot used in cooking a meal is a relatively simple example to illustrate the types of pads in present use. Wooden pads (pot holders) are used to separate the heated pot from the temperature susceptible surface. Another material is that of cloth, or a type of fabric based material. Each of these have some disadvantages however. Wooden and cloth based materials are relatively porous and are capable of absorbing cooking particles, moisture, and grease. Additionally, each have limited gripping ability on a table top or counter surface resulting in the chance that the items may slide. In the case with a wooden pad, wood has a chance of marring the surface of the table or counter if not kept sanded down smooth. When it comes to washing or cleaning, the wood material is not washable in dishwashers and is left to being wiped down with a rag and some cleaning solution. The cloth based fabric is able to be washed, but washing tends to break down the fabric over time, slowly decrease the fabric pad's ability to separate the heated object from the counter or table, and cause undesired shrinkage. Additionally, the mere use of the fabric pad in conjunction with the heat from the pot breaks down the fabric. Fabrics are not as durable as wood pads.

A more sanitary, washable, and durable pad is needed. Although great strides have been made in heat resistant pads, considerable shortcomings remain.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top view of a silicone band according to the preferred embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the silicone band of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the silicone band of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a silicone pad made of a plurality of the silicone bands of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable loom and the silicone bands of FIGS. 1 and 2.

While the system and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the device described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3 in the drawings, various embodiments of a silicone band are illustrated. The bands illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 are configured to be used to create an interwoven network of silicone bands to form a selectively sized pad as seen in FIG. 4. FIG. 1 illustrates a silicone band is a continuous and seamless loop. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an alternative embodiment for a silicone band, wherein the silicone bands are formed as an elongated member having opposing ends.

Referring in particular to FIG. 1, silicone band 101 is illustrated. Band 101 is a continuous member forming a loop. Band 101 is seamless preferably. The seam acting as a weakened location where the band was bonded to itself to form the loop. It is understood that band 101 may have seams and that such seams are capable of maintaining the flexibility, forces, and temperatures intended to be experienced.

Referring now in particular to FIG. 2, silicone band 103 is illustrated. Band 103 differs from band 101 in that band 103 is an elongate silicone member having opposing ends 105, 107. No loop is formed. Band 103 includes a center elongated silicone body 109, a first loop portion 111, and a second loop portion 113. Loop portion 111 is integrally coupled or formed to end 105 while loop portion 113 is integrally coupled or formed to end 107. Loop portions 111, 113 are made from silicone similar in function and features to that of body 109. Loop portions 111, 113 are simplistic in nature and consist of a circular shape having a central aperture. It is understood that the shape of loop portions 111, 113 are not so limited to the depicted form. Other shapes are possible, including triangular, rectangular, oval, and so forth. Loop portions 111, 113 are configured to have any shape that permits body 109 to be attached in tension at ends 105 and 107. Therefore, loop portion may be an aperture as seen in FIG. 2 or may be a hook shape.

Referring in particular to FIG. 3, a silicone band 115 is illustrated. Band 115 is similar in form and function to that of band 103. Band 115 also includes a center elongated silicone body 117, a first loop portion 119, and a second loop portion 121. However, band 115 primarily differs from band 103 in that loop portions 119 and 121 are releasably coupled to opposing ends 123 and 125 of body 117. Loop portions 119, 121 are made from silicone similar in function and features to that of body 117. Loop portions 119, 121 are similar in form and function to that of loop portions 111, 113 in FIG. 2.

Each loop portion 119, 121 is configured to provide an attaching stem or portion (not shown) to permit coupling to body 117. The stem has a matching circumference to that of body 117. A compressive member 127 is used to grip around the stem of the loop and also to grip the end of body 115. Compressive member 127 is a flexible heat resistant material having an open edge or two open ends, allowing for the insertion of the band and stem. When the band and stem are inserted through the opening(s), compressive member 127 may be compressed by a user upon application of the necessary external forces. Compressive member 127 is strengthen sufficiently to retain its shape and the corresponding compressive forces after application of the external forces. An example of compressive member 127 is a flexible “c” shaped clamp configured to pinch around the band and stem when a user applies the necessary external force. The compressive force binds loop portions 119, 121 to body 117. Depending on the configuration of compressive member 127, a seam 129 may be formed to indicate to the user a level of adequate compression.

It is understood that other methods of joining loop portions 119, 121 to body 117 are contemplated. For example, and adhesive may be used. Alternatively, a heat treatment may be applied to fuse the two members together. It is understood that the shape of loop portions 119,121 are not so limited to the depicted form. Other shapes are possible, including triangular, rectangular, oval, and so forth. Loop portions 119,121 are configured to have any shape that permits body 109 to be attached in tension at ends 123 and 125. Therefore, loop portion may be an aperture as seen in FIGS. 2 and 3 or may be a hook shape. Additionally, band 115 is configured to permit a user the ability to customize the cosmetic and ornamental appearance along with the function as recited between the hook shape and loop. The cosmetic and ornamental appearance relates to, but is not limited to the following: color, pattern, material, smell, print and so forth. It is important to note that band 115 is configured to permit the detaching and reattaching of loop portions 119,121 from body 117 in a repetitious manner.

The silicone used in the bands of FIGS. 1-3 are non-porous, non-absorbent, and heat resistant. Each band has elastic properties permitting the bands to flex and stretch. The non-porous and non-absorbent nature of the bands allows the bands to resist absorption of liquids and bacteria that may fester or breed if not cleaned. Furthermore, the bands of FIGS. 1-3 are heat resistant. The bands are configured of a silicone based material that can resist weakening or the changing of chemical structure and composition when exposed to temperatures at least as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit. An example would be the ability to tolerate direct contact from a heated cooking tool such as a pot or pan set to boil water or broil meat.

It should also be noted that although silicone is the material of choice, it is understood that other non-silicone materials may be incorporated upon design preferences. The material should have minimal to no porosity and be heat tolerant as described above. An additional feature of the bands of FIGS. 1-3 is the ability to withstand washing in a dishwasher and in a washing machine.

Referring now also to FIG. 4 in the drawings, a silicone pad 141 is illustrated. Pad 141 includes a first plurality of silicone bands aligned in a parallel manner along first orientation and a second plurality of silicone bands aligned in a parallel manner along a second orientation. The first orientation is orthogonal to the second orientation. The intersection of the silicone bands are selectively woven to form a tightly knit grouping. The pattern is preselected by a user to a pre-selected dimension. Other patterns may be used apart from the orthogonal orientations of the bands. Additionally, other shapes such as octagonal, pentagonal, or diamond may be selected.

The bands used in pad 141 are any one of bands 101, 103, 115 as seen in FIGS. 1-3. An intermingling of bands 101, 103, 115 may also be used. This means that pad 141 is composed of silicone in the preferred embodiment. In order to limit slippage in the interwoven pattern, the bands include a surface texture configured to prevent the translation of bands 101, 103, 115 relative to one another within the pattern. Additionally, the surface texture enables pad 141 to adhere to or grip a surface (i.e., counter top). Silicone itself has an increased level of grip, therefore even without the surface texture, pad 141 is configured to maintain the interwoven pattern without the need for edge treatments around the perimeter 143.

Referring now also to FIG. 5 in the drawings, a portable table top hand-held loom 151 is illustrated. Loom 151 forms a perimeter of a preselected shape and dimension. Upward protruding knobs 153 are located around the perimeter of loom 151. There are equal numbers of knobs 153 on opposing sides of loom 151. Bands 101, 103, and or 115 are attached to corresponding knobs 153 across opposing ends of the perimeter. As seen in FIG. 5, bands 101 are used as well as one band 103.

To make pad 141, a table top hand-held portable loom is to be located. The bands of choice are selected. The bands may be of differing cosmetic and ornamental appearance or may alternatively have a uniform appearance. Likewise bands of differing materials may also be used. The bands are interwoven across loom 151 to achieve a preselected pattern and size. Once the pattern is completed, the bands are removed from knobs 153. Instead of needing to interlace the ends of the bands as seen in typical pads, the silicone material grips the neighboring bands in the interwoven pattern sufficiently to not require edge treatments. However, a user may elect to apply at least one edge treatment.

An edge treatment is used to: 1) selectively ensure and maintain the interwoven pattern does not unweave and 2) selectively ornament and decorate the pad. Attachment member 145 a are similar in function to that of loop portions of FIGS. 2 and 3. An attachment member is merely a more cosmetic and ornamental loop portion. Because the pattern is completed, the function of the actual loop or hook is not necessary any longer. If bands 101 were used to form pad 141, the exposed ends of bands 101 may be cut and attachment members may be applied. Additionally, where bands 103 were used to form pad 141, loop portions 111, 113, 119, 121 may be removed and replaced by a more decorative attachment member 145 a. Attachment members 145 a may be used to bind neighboring band ends around the perimeter of the pad to ensure the interwoven pattern does not unweave.

The ability to repetitiously and repeatedly remove edge treatments allows a user the ability to customize and repair pad 141. For example, if one band breaks or needs to be replaced, the attachment member (if used) can be removed from the body of the band to permit removal of the band from the pattern and the insertion or replacement with another band. Additionally, the edge treatment can serve a way to functionalize the pad by attaching accessories 145 b, such as a large loop, to assist is the vertical hanging or storage of pad 141 against a wall. Pad 141 is versatile in permitting the attachment and removal of various accessories 145 b and attachment members 145 a or loop portions. It is to be understood that attachment members and accessories are releasably coupled to a band in a similar manner as described with the loop portions of FIG. 3.

The current application has many advantages over the prior art including the following: (1) heat resistant material used in the pads that does not break down when exposed to direct heat; (2) non-porous material to resist absorption of liquids and food; (3) machine washable material; (4) releasably coupled attachment members or loop portions to permit customization and repair of the pad.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A silicone band for use with a portable table top hand-held loom, comprising: an elongated silicone body having a first end and a second end; a first loop portion adjacent to the first end; and a second loop portion adjacent to the second end, the second loop portion having the same planar orientation as the first silicone loop portion; wherein the elongated silicone body, the first loop portion, and the second loop portion are non-porous and heat resistant.
 2. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the first loop portion is integrally formed into the elongated silicone body, the first loop portion being made of silicone.
 3. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the first loop and the second loop are integrally formed into the elongated silicone body, the first loop portion and the second loop portion being made of silicone.
 4. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the first loop portion is releasably coupled to the first end via a heat resistant compressive member.
 5. The silicone band of claim 4, wherein the first loop portion is configured to have a customized cosmetic and ornamental appearance and function.
 6. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the first loop portion and the second loop portion are releasably coupled to the elongated silicone body via interference fit.
 7. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the first loop portion and the second loop portion are made from a non-silicone based material.
 8. The silicone band of claim 1, wherein the elongated silicone body, the first silicone loop, and the second silicone loop are heat resistant up to at least 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
 9. A heat resistant silicone pad, comprising: a first plurality of silicone bands aligned in a parallel manner along first orientation; and a second plurality of silicone bands aligned in a parallel manner along a second orientation, the second orientation being orthogonal to that of the first orientation; wherein the first plurality of silicone bands and the second plurality of silicone bands are interwoven in a preselected pattern and to a pre-selected dimension; wherein the first plurality of silicone bands are configured to bond to the second plurality of silicone bands, such that the interwoven pattern is maintained without the need to restrict the ends of the silicone bands.
 10. The heat resistant silicone pad of claim 9, wherein the first plurality of silicone bands and the second plurality of silicone bands include a surface texture configured to grip to a surface.
 11. The heat resistant silicone pad of claim 9, further comprising an attachment member coupled to one or more exposed ends of the silicone bands along the perimeter of the pattern, the attachment member is configured to prevent removal of at least one of the first plurality of silicone bands and the second plurality of silicone bands.
 12. The silicone band of claim 11, wherein the attachment member is configured to have a user selected, customized cosmetic and ornamental appearance and function.
 13. The silicone band of claim 11, wherein the attachment member is interchangeable to facilitate vertical storage.
 14. The silicone band of claim 9, wherein the first plurality of silicone bands and the second plurality of silicone bands are made from a non-silicone based material.
 15. A method of making a non-porous heat resistant pad to protect a surface from a heated cooking tool, comprising: locating a table top hand-held portable loom; interweaving a plurality of silicone bands across the loom to achieve a preselected pattern and size; detaching the silicone bands from the loom; and applying an edge treatment to at least one of the plurality of silicone bands, the edge treatment configured to prevent removal of the at least one of the plurality of silicone bands.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein at least one of the plurality of silicone bands is a seamless continuous loop; and wherein the edge treatment includes: cutting the loop along the perimeter of the pattern; and attaching a releasable attachment member configured to prevent the unweaving of the pattern.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the plurality of silicone bands are removable to permit customization and repair of the pattern.
 18. The method of claim 15, further comprising: bonding adjacent portions of the plurality of silicone bands along the perimeter of the interwoven pattern to prevent unweaving.
 19. The method of claim 15, wherein the edge treatment includes an attachment member, the attachment member coupled to at least one of the plurality of silicone bands by adhesive, heat fusion bonding, compressive members, and interference fit. 